Brussels: Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard announced on Tuesday that Sweden will advocate within the European Union for sanctions against specific Israeli ministers in response to Israel's treatment of Palestinian civilians in Gaza.
According to Jordan News Agency, Stenergard, speaking from Brussels, emphasized that the proposed sanctions would target Israeli ministers who advocate illegal settlement policies and actively oppose a future two-state solution. She stated, "As long as we do not see a clear improvement in the situation of civilians in Gaza, we need to escalate our rhetoric."
Stenergard further elaborated on Sweden's position, explaining that the individuals in question will be discussed within the EU framework. She highlighted Sweden's consistent calls for increased humanitarian access in Gaza and criticized the ongoing challenges in ensuring aid delivery to the region.
Expressing concern over the situation, Stenergard pointed out, "how the Israeli government continues to escalate the situation, both in terms of rhetoric and actions." She underscored that Sweden has persistently communicated with the Israeli government, urging for improved humanitarian conditions for civilians in Gaza.